Uber Launches Free Scooter Rides in Beitou; Ministry of Transport Says It's Still Illegal, Even as 'Experience'

(CNA, Taipei, July 1, 2024) -- Uber announced today that it will launch a one-month free short-distance scooter ride experience in Beitou starting at 2 p.m. The Ministry of Transport stated that the government does not permit scooters to illegally engage in commercial passenger transport activities, and even if packaged as a cultural experience, it should be judged based on the operational reality rather than whether a fee is charged.

Uber announced that starting today at 2 p.m., it will launch a one-month "Beitou Short-Distance Cultural Experience," offering free short-distance scooter ride options for a limited period and within a limited area.

Chen Yen-po, Vice Minister of Transport, speaking to reporters at the press conference for the launch of the "My Green Ride. My Good Life - Green Transportation Service Platform," stated that the current Highway Act does not permit scooters to be used as commercial passenger transport vehicles. Uber's planned operational method constitutes an illegal act, and the government does not allow scooters to illegally engage in commercial passenger transport activities.

Chen Yen-po pointed out that although the operator claims it is an "experience," the judgment should be based on the operational reality, not on whether a fee is charged. The essence of the operation is commercial.

Chen Yen-po reiterated that this is an illegal act. The Taipei City Government has already made a public statement, "They also consider this an illegal act, and we support the Taipei City Government's stance and its adherence to the law." He added that if Uber is indeed found to be in violation, the Ministry supports the Taipei City Government in imposing penalties according to the Highway Act.

In May of this year, it was reported that Uber planned to trial scooter passenger transport in Beitou. At the time, the Ministry of Transport stated that taxi services use passenger cars, and the regulations do not permit scooters. Violating drivers could face fines of up to NT$200,000, and operators up to NT$25 million. (Editor: Lung Po-an) 1150701

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